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Friday, April 7, 2017

Refreshed Outback adds More

Alongside the mid-cycle refreshes for the 2018 WRX STI and 2018 Legacy, the Outback is poised to take yet another step towards refinement. Since it's redesign as a 2015 model, the Outback has built on and improved it's flagship status for Subaru. The changes for it's 2018 version (being released in the Summer of 2017) go further than the usual updates Subaru usually addresses.

Space and size remain as they had from the 2015-2017 Outback models, but the entire infotainment system in the Outback has been revamped to include Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The display itself is larger, has better resolution, and multi-gesture touch control has been improved from the previous system. The climate controls just below the 8" Touchscreen have also been revamped and simplified.

Among other interior updates, the Outback receives an additional interior color option: Titanium Gray. The existing Slate Black and Warm Ivory interiors remain as well as the Java Brown leather that is exclusive to the "Touring" trim levels. That's a total of four different interior colors available on the Outback (double what was offered in 2015).

There's the usual suspects for updates on the exterior. New steering-responsive headlights grace the redesigned front bumper and grille. There's also new 18" wheels for the Limited trim Outbacks. Enhancements made throughout the Subaru Outback chassis include revamped suspension dampers for a smoother ride, along with retuned Electronic Power Steering and brake systems for a more direct feel.

Subaru's quietest riding vehicle just got quieter. The Lineartronic CVT for 2.5i models now uses a quieter short-pitch chain, and adjustments to engine timing under acceleration that reduces powertrain noise. It's reshaped exterior mirrors, new sound-insulating glass for the front side windows, and thicker rear wheel well aprons all reduce cabin noise.

For revisions that will only stick around for the 2018 and 2019 model years, seeing this level of improvement is impressive. These updates will keep the Outback competitive and fresh until it moves to the Subaru Global Platform in 2020.